SMITHFIELD, R.I. – The New England Patriots announced the signing linebacker Rob Holmberg today. The terms of the deal were not released.
Holmberg, 29, has played in 49 career games, totaling 24 tackles (19 solos) and 38 special teams tackles. In 1999, he played in all 16 games with the Minnesota Vikings, recording five tackles and 11 special teams tackles.
The 6-foot-3-inch, 240-pound linebacker was originally drafted by the Los Angeles Raiders in the seventh round of the 1994 NFL draft (217th overall). He played in all 16 games during the 1994 season and finished third on the team with eight special teams tackles. In 1995, he played in all 16 games with the Raiders and totaled three tackles, including one sack and seven special teams tackles. Holmberg played in 13 games, including one start in 1996, registering four tackles, including one sack, seven special teams tackles and blocked a punt. He played in all 16 games in 1997, collecting six tackles and nine special teams tackles.
In 1998, Holmberg was released by the Raiders on Aug. 30 and was signed by the Indianapolis Colts. He spent two games with the Colts and was credited with three special teams tackles. He was released from the Colts and signed with the New York Jets on Oct. 27, 1998. He played in nine games and registered two special teams tackles with New York.